Senior dogs

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Just as with humans, age catches up on dogs, and from around the age of seven (or earlier for giant breeds), they start to slow down and become less active.

If you continue feeding the same feed, your dog will naturally put on weight, so you need to move him to a diet that’s high in protein but lower in fat.

Once you notice that your dog has started to slowdown, keep an eye out for any signs of weight gain. If you allow your dog become obese, they can be facing a whole range of problems including joint issues, diabetes and heart or respiratory issues.

Keeping them in normal physical condition will not be difficult – particularly if you switch to a feed that’s been formulated especially with senior dogs in mind.

Also, bear in mind that your dog’s digestive system may not be working as well as it did when they were fully active. So splitting your dogs fed into two portions – morning and evening – will make it easier for them to get their nutritional needs.

Just like humans, different breeds of dogs slow down at different rates, and keeping an eye on things is a better strategy than being guided by something in an online guide. If you see things like your dog’s tail drooping regularly, or more rapid panting, chances are that Father Time has started to catch up on your dog.

Bear this in mind when you go out to play with your dog. Don’t push your dog so hard in retrieving that stick, for example – and allow a little rest every time you throw it, and maybe don’t throw it as far.